Table 2 Criteria to determine patient readiness for transfer from the post anesthesia care unit to the surgical inpatient ward

• Ability to maintain and protect airway

• Normalization of respiratory status

• Cardiovascular stability without medical support

• No significant hemorrhage

• Sufficient diuresis

• Adequate pain and nausea control

• Body temperature within normal limits

•After spinal anesthesia: sensory level below thoracic 10